Reddit mentions: The best industrial & construction shoes for men

hey man, I'm nearly 32 but I've been on this forum since my mid-20's, so I've experimented with a bit, and my style has obviously changed as I've gotten older.

There's no "30 year old style." It's pretty much the same thing as in your 20s (and this extends to your 40s, too). The key is that you need to be more aware of the scenarios in which you are wearing your clothing. There's much more leeway in terms of social acceptance when you're in college, grad school, or starting your first job and going out to happy hours and socializing with other 20-somethings.

In the end, all of the same general principles on MFA still apply into your 30s and 40s, you just have to be more cognizant of your situation.

That being said, here's what I recommend:

(1) get a pair of sneakers that you can wear casually. Not running shoes... casual sneakers. I have these New Balance ML574's. I love the two-tone texture look. I wear these literally every day, all year.

• walking the dog
  
• walking to the store
  
• going to a restaurant with friends (of course it depends on other factors, like the occasion, the rest of my outfit, etc.)
  
  (2) get a pair of versatile boots that walk the line between both casual and professional. I have a pair of Frye Walters. I love the look, but I think I would recommend some other boot as far as comfort and durability, like the MFA coveted Alden 405. I wear these a few times per week.
  
  
• any other outfit that graduates from my sneakers above
  
• when I travel for work, these are the only non-sneaker shoes I bring (business casual environment)
  
• traveling for leisure, these are (usually) the only non-sneaker shoes I bring, depending on what I'm doing
  
  (3) Pretty much all I wear are (1) and (2), but I also work from home so I don't have to go into the office every day. That said, depending on your job and your job wardrobe, expand your collection with shoes that will help there. If you work in an office, get quality dress oxfords, play with some wingtips, or get some chelsea boots or other kinds of dress boots.
  
  (4) Optional: another pair of boots that are more casual. I have a pair of Golden Fox Moc toe vibram wedge. I would sort of put these as less casual than the dress boots in (2), and substitutable with sneakers (no shorts, of course). T-shirt and jeans wouldn't look good with the (2) boots, but would work with a more casual, chunky boot.
  
  I think that's all I got.

These show to be "Goodyear welt" but I'm not sure if they qualify for this sub... Thanks for considering my questions if not.

I'm considering these Georgia Boot Romeos from Amazon. From the reviews I think they'd do well for me. They are in my price range. Wide width is important as "normal" shoes have never seemed to me to actually be shaped like feet. I work in IT in a hospital so lots of walking, not much need for oil resistance, but non slip is a nice touch anyway.

I'm over 300 lbs and trying to walk more for health, circulation, and exercise so I want something I can put some daily miles on, literally.

I'm trying to take a step up from Merell's with Vibram soles.
Model previous to these, but really similar to what I'm replacing:
Merrell Men's Moab Adventure Moc Hiking Shoe, Boulder, 12 2E US https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01NAUXQQH/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_pJH3BbBS8YZB0

With the above I wear through these arch support insoles every three months or so to stretch out my arch and prevent heel spurs or
plantar fasciitis:
Footminders COMFORT Orthotic Arch Support Insoles for Sport Shoes and Work Boots (Pair) (X-LARGE: Men 11½ - 13) - Relieve Foot Pain Due to Flat Feet and Plantar Fasciitis https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AW1L7W2/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_USH3BbBFQB6F2




I'm considering these:
Notched:
Georgia Giant Men’s Romeo Slip-On Work Shoe,Brown,12 W https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0012F7BG8/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_U-G3BbJAQ7QP5

Or these:
Wedge:
Georgia Boot Men's GR274 Giant Romeo Work Shoe, Soggy Brown, 12 W US https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0012FBDPI/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_Q9G3BbT60E2CR


The notched honestly looks better (I've been getting away with the Merrell's so either would be an improvement on that front).
My gut tells me the wedge will be more comfortable given my size. Shoes with a flatter sole or support under the whole foot have always seemed more comfortable to me. Any time I've had a notched sole I feel like I can "feel" that space where there's no support and it starts to become painful after a while as the shoes wear out, though that may just be because they've been crappy shoes...


So the questions:
Are these actually Goodyear welt, or is this scammy marketing?

Should I go wedge or notched sole? And why?

Is there another semi dressy, stable, durable slip-on in the same price same I should consider instead?

I'm in Nashville and from reading the sidebar I'm fortunate to have quality shoe stores in town. I don't think I can drop over 100 bucks on boots, but given what I've said above, should I just do it anyway (after suffering with the Merrell's a few more months and saving up)?

Thanks so much for any advice!

I have experience with most of the places mentioned here so far. I also second the composite over steel toe suggestion.

Sid Boedeker is just okay in my opinion. I got some work boots from there in 2014, but was really disappointed in their selection to choose from. I was wanting a traditional brown leather somewhat western-style boot. They carry all kinds of safety shoes, and it may be different now, but I thought that specifically their brown boot selection was poor.

I really like Hewlett and Dunn in Collierville. They have a huge selection of boots and carry safety boots as well. Pretty sure they supply every model Ariat imaginable. Cool store in general and I like to support a local business. I went there last month to try on this boot and will return to purchase it soon.

I got some Iron Rangers from Red Wing last year. Not really work boots, but I was very pleased with how I was treated as a customer there and would definitely return. They have a machine that you can step on that measures each foot and gives you a size recommendation along with a report on your arch and pressure points.

Academy Sports does seem to have a decent selection from the times I have been there and they always seem to have great prices. Never bought a boot from them though.

I truly enjoy Timberland, I own two pair of them but of the two I especially love these


http://www.amazon.com/Timberland-PRO-Magnus-Safety-Brown/dp/B003NUQYHW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1421042972&sr=8-1&keywords=timberland+pro+magnus


I bought them for $100 but Amazon has them for $70! I wore them a year straight through all sorts of conditions, work, hiking, yard work, casual. I replaced the insoles after the first year and they're still going strong! Definitely oil / condition the leather so they last a bit longer. I'm now coming on 2 years of owning them. I even wear them instead of the newer pair I bought recently.

Thorogood can be a good bet for smaller sizes, I wear the Roofer in 6.5 (true to size), and it is a good soft-toe work boot for situations where I want a lot of grip from the wedge sole, but don't need my steel toes. Looks like Amazon has a few in smaller sizes available for a good price:

https://www.amazon.com/Thorogood-Mens-Roofer-Black-Boots/dp/B00EQDI4UU/

Their other boots are good as well, and reasonably priced.

As far as other work-ish boots I own in smaller sizes, most are custom... Nicks and Whites do make great boots, but they are more expensive.

I've been wearing these for about a year doing mainly interior finishing work.
https://www.amazon.com/Timberland-PRO-Velocity-Alloy-Safety/dp/B019EK8Y5O/ref=sr_1_37?crid=35545JP9UWKX9&keywords=timberland+steel+toe+boots+for+men&qid=1564972197&s=gateway&sprefix=timberland%2Caps%2C242&sr=8-37
Super light and comfortable, but they're no work boot. They satisfy the safety requirements and are good for walking around and ladder work, but not so good on uneven ground or slopes. In fact, I would only recommend them if you need something super light and are working on solid surfaces.

These are the first boots I ever used in the brewery. I found their fit to be relatively comfortable, and they lasted me near a year before holes developed. However, because of their material, they don't breathe, and even with some damn fine water wicking socks, my feet were still pretty damp/moist at the end of the day, and lead to some "trench foot". Ever since I have been using various other types of boots. Just got a pair of Timberland PRO Rigmasters The fit is very good, and they feel very comfortable and robust. The inserts in them agree with most people. Several of my coworkers went with the more expensive Timberland PRO Boondock and swear by them. I'm a bit frugal for that.

Either way, I want to post a WARNING for all potential boot buyers: I advise AGAINST buying the Georgia Boot Muddog. 6 people in our brewery all purchased these boots within a few months of each other. They are comfortable and look good, and the rubber encased bottom design seems smart. However, every single one of our boots began to die after only a few short months, in EXACTLY the same way. The leather began to separate from the rubber portion on Lateral/Anterior edge. The boots were quite worthless within 6 months. And this is with Mink Oil Application every couple of days. I got mine to last 11 months with judicial use of various boot repairing goo's and glues.

I have a few things for sale that I can’t/don’t wear. Pictures: http://imgur.com/a/R12m4


****

• JCrew Ludlow wing tips in Cigar Brown size 9D - Worn once for a total walking time of about a half hour. Half size small for me. Fits a bit narrower than the Barrie last. More brown in person than the pictures show. $150 shipped
  
  
  
• JCrew Wallace & Barnes Byrd boots size 9.5D - Brand new. Fit long so definitely size down half if not a whole size. Made with Horween Chromexcel leather. $175 shipped
  
  
  
• Naked & Famous "Slim Guy" Big Slub 18oz selvedge denim in indigo size 32 - Brand new. Retail at $215. Don’t fit me but I wish they did. $100 shipped
  
  
  
• Golden Fox boots 9.5M - Brand new. Fit me well but I have 15+ boots so these will get no wear whatsoever. $60 shipped
  
  
  
• Sperry Top-Sider A/O 2 Eye Tan Suede Leather Boat Deck Shoes size 9M - Worn once for a few hours and realized they are half a size to a full size too small for me. Super comfy otherwise. $40 shipped
  
  
  
• Brand new SuitSupply belts size 34 - Too small for me. The belts seem to run small for your actual waist measurement, so size up. These will work for a true 30”-32” waist. $30 shipped EACH
  
  
  
• iPhone 5 case - Really nice leather case. I’ll add it for free for any anyone that purchases two or more items. $15 shipped

I find you don't have to go after a boot that is brand "Hiking boots" because work boots can be just as great for a cheaper price. My husband wears CAT boots, you can find them on Amazon or you can find them at Walmart for a decent price. one,two, & three are all pretty good and last quite some time. I would check out Walmart first though because on amazon the bigger the shoe size the more expensive the shoe is which they don't do at regular shoe stores so it may be better to look around places such as Walmart, Pay Less,ect before going to Amazon.

Also I am not sure how 'light' they are it depends on the person for my husband they work out perfectly for camping,hiking,fishing,ect.

Timberland Pro

These are the best shoes I've ever worn. Safety-toe, ESD, leather, slip resistant, well made, and very comfortable - perfect for any sort of IT work. I work for an MSP and have to work in a large variety of environments, including manufacturing plants. I've had these for a year and they still look great despite me not taking care of the leather like I should. I plan on reordering the same pair when the time comes 2-3 years from now.

These are still Pros but they look way better than those ones and are still relatively cheap. I'm not a huge fan of the color but they are at least more aesthetically pleasing.

EDIT: Better yet are these color wise at least.

Not gonna lie, the Dr. Scholls work shoes on Amazon aren't that bad looking. They kind of look like a steel-toe boot when you wear them. I have the Winder I, the II is out now I think. Plus they're-

1. Water-tight.
   
2. Slip-On
   
3. COMFORTABLE (Built in Gel-Inserts and great arch support)
   
4. Slip-Resistant (Also in Oil/Water)
   
5. $60 bucks on Amazon
   
   BTW, I love this review. Very "in character."

Hey guys! This is my first time contributing to this sub, hope you enjoy! I'm not to familiar with high end brands so I got some item inspiration from posts on this sub. Also, the high end t shirt is supposed to be acne, not APC, typo. The fit pic is one I found in an old inspo album I have, so I couldn't find the source. Here are the links:

Frugal:

• Levis Trucker Jacket
  
  
• H&M Fine Knit Sweater
  
  
• H&M Basic White T-shirt
  
  
• Uniqlo Garrison Belt
  
  
• Golden Fox Leather Moc Toe Boots
  
  
• Uniqlo Slim Fit Chinos
  
  
• Timex Weekender
  
  High End:
  
  
• APC Veste Jean Jacket
  
  
• RL Purple Label Crew Neck
  
  
• Acne Standard O White
  
  
• Allen Edmond Casual Belt
  
  
• Nudie Slim Khaki
  
  
• Red Wing Heritage Moc Toe Boots
  
  
• Daniel Wellington Watch

These are really cheap and look awesome. Plus they sound pretty good. They also make great looking chukkas

Let's take a look at shoe prices. I'll take the top hit in each category, and use the default By Relevance sort. I prevent Amazon from keeping any state, so aside from geo-locating my IP (which would likely drive up pricing, not down), so any purchase history should not bias price.

• Women, Flats: Madden Girl Women's Shopperr Ballet Flat: $39.95-$49.99
  
  
• Women, Sandals: Madden Girl Women's Kain Wedge Sandal: $38.05-$49.95
  
  
• Women, Pumps: Betsey Johnson Women's Leela Platform Pump: $89.95 - $89.99 (almost into your range!)
  
  
• Women, Fashion Sneakers: Steve Madden Women's The Blonde Salad Tnyc Fashion Sneaker: $139.95: over your range, fair enough.
  
  
• Women, Loafers & Slip-Ons TOMS Women's Canvas Slip-On: $22.54 - $999.0 (the high price is an error)
  
  
• Women, Athletic: ASICS Men's Gel-Contend D Running Shoe: $28.98 - $64.35 (I assume that this shoe is listed as unigender for it to show up in the women's section as well).
  
  
• Women's, Work & Safety: Skechers for Work Women's Stedman Slip-Resistant Work Shoe: $64.95
  
  
• Women's, Boots: Nature Breeze Women's Vickie Hi Faux Suede Boot: $12.53 - $59.99
  
  
• Women's, Outdoor: New Balance Women's WT510 Trail Running Shoe: $42.99 - $64.99
  
  
• Women's, Mules & Clogs: Crocs Unisex Classic Clog: $15.25 - $49.95
  
  
• Women's, Oxfords: Ollio Women's Shoe Classics Lace Up Dress Low Flat Heel Multi Colored Oxford: $16.99
  
  
• Women's, Slippers: Bobs from Skechers Women's Keepsakes - Puffers Slipper: $31.89 - $73.53
  
  
• Men's, Loafers & Slip-Ons: Skechers for Work Men's Cottonwood Fribble Slip-Resistant Work Shoe: $69.95
  
  
• Men's, Work & Safety: Skechers for Work Men's Cottonwood Fribble Slip-Resistant Work Shoe: $69.95 (same item as above; might be popular and show up in two categories...)
  
  
• Men's, Fashion Sneakers: Levi's Men's Jordy Energy Fashion Sneaker: $37.95 - $39.99
  
  
• Men's, Atheletic: HUF Men's Sutter Skate Shoe: $59.99-$60.00
  
  
• Men's, Oxford: Levis Men's Mitch Oxford: $44.99-$50.00
  
  
• Men's, Sandals: John Varvatos Men's Tobago Stitched Thong Flip-Flop: $148.00 (all right, another one not only in but above the price range)
  
  
• Men's Boots: Clarks Originals Men's Desert Boot: $54.50-$148.50 (the options seem to mostly yield $79, but I'll grant that there's a combination of size and style that could get it up into and above your range.
  
  
• Men's, Outdoor: Polo Ralph Lauren Men's Faxon Low Sneaker: $30.68-$79.95
  
  
• Men's, Mules & Clogs: crocs Men's Santa Cruz Slip-On $30.91-$99.99. While these mostly seem to be ~$53, there is a combination of size and style somewhere that would boost this into the low end of your range.
  
  
• Men's, Slippers: Mens Fleece Lined Slippers: $5.99
  
  You can draw brackets where you want, but unless you're simply defining what most people wear to be low-end and hence not "normal", I don't think that $90-$120 provides a very good picture.

Thanks. I'm considering getting the pair of boots you linked (your previous review as my first, but I was wondering if the sizes of these vary to regular training shoes or anything. I see people buying relatively small numbers (6.5EE and 7D). Any chance you'd explain to me what those letters mean and what size I should probably get? I'm a pretty big guy being 6'3" I usually wear size 12.5-13 training/running shoes. I checked the amazon page but they don't seem to have any sizes from 11 to 13. Any idea where I could possible get them in another size?

I've been suffering from a neuropathy of some sort (not diabetes) for about 10 years, and for 90% of the time, all I can stand to wear have been the excellent Brooks Beast Running shoes. That's been hard for this 57 year old Iowa farm boy that grew up in boots.

I settled on a pair of Thorogood American Heritage work boots, and after a relatively uncomfortable afternoon of break in, they've been extraordinary. The wedge sole has been great for my back as well, although that's not the only option. I strongly encourage anyone to give them a shot:
https://www.amazon.com/Thorogood-Mens-American-Heritage-Plain/dp/B00HZB8GS0

[SELL] Size 7.5 Golden Fox Moc Toe Boots
I really like how these look, but they are too similar to another pair I already own. I just received them in mail and they are new with tags in original packaging. I am willing to part with them for $55 plus shipping.
Amazon link to boots
More pictures from malefashionadvice
Message me if you are interested or if you have any questions!

I really like the these Golden Fox boots. I bought a pair earlier this year and I think they look and feel great for the price.

A few months back there was some talk about the Golden Fox moc toe boots, you can find them on Amazon. I never really felt comfortable with the range of reviews or the quality of the leather so I decided to wait.

Fast forward to late October, I happened across a pair of Eastland moc toe boots at Nordstrom Rack for only $70. You can buy them new from their site here for $125 with a 15% off coupon if you sign up for their mailing list. I love them - been keeping my feet dry and warm through the Chicago winter thus far. Would recommend for the price point.

I went through two pairs of Keen Atlanta Cools during my 5 years on the ramp.

My only complaint was when it rained your feet WILL get soaked....

They are light, fit like a tennis shoe, and saved my toes countless times from towbars, tow heads, luggage, tools, single point nozzles, anything you can think of that would crush a rampers foot.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004J3E58W/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1494374392&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=keen+atlanta+cool&dpPl=1&dpID=41o4SiNcfQL&ref=plSrch

These Golden Fox Boots.

There's pretty cheap, but Goodyear welted and the leather/construction is quality (although not top-of-the-line). I own a pair of Chippewas, Bean Boots, and Iron Rangers, and these get the most compliments by far. They add some lighter colors to usual winter outfits that tend to be dark, they're big and chunky, and you'll get some solid years out of wearing them.

I really can't say enough good things about them.

With winter approaching and being a student on a budget, I'm in desperate need of boots that aren't a high price, even though I'll be giving up some quality for it. Right now I'm stuck in between two boots, the Golden Fox 6" Moc Toe Boots and Crevo Moc Toe Boots. Not sure as to which to get. Any suggestions on either, or experience? And if you know a better boot that is preferrably under $100, please share.

I should have been more specific - Something like This

Or if you prefer a less chunky or more slender boot, something like This

Red Wing is the most comfortable but unfortunately don't breathe well.

My favorites are Keens work shoes

Most of the guys at my plant swear by Timberland work shoes

Going into electrical engineering you may want to look into some composite toes for electrical hazard protection.

Also, make sure you check with HR or your boss for compensation for protective equipment. If it's required to do your job they need to provide the funds for it.

Try the eastland high fidelity boots, I bought a pair a couple weeks back for around $100 and I love the way they look.

Here are a couple pictures of my pair.

boots

top down shot

Alternatively, if you're looking for a moc toe boot, you can try golden fox boots

No, more like these

Not the same look, but those soles are better for icy/wet conditions

What are the differences between these two? Also what is the difference between brown and brun?

http://www.amazon.com/Golden-Fox-Leather-Weight-Outsole/dp/B007ZU7SU8

http://www.amazon.com/Golden-Fox-Mens-Polyurethane-Outsole/dp/B00OEDOWZ8/ref=sr_1_2?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1417626387&sr=1-2&keywords=golden+fox+moc

Thanks!

So if the wolverines are made in china, would I be better off buying the Golden Foxes

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0083F3L9Q/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1467843068&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=golden+fox+boots&dpPl=1&dpID=518cWo6qJlL&ref=plSrch

Is there a marked difference in leather and construction quality?

Shoes (100$ Budget) - Golden Fox boots would be a good choice if you want to spend $100 total on shoes and boots.

Chinos (60$ Budget) - You can get Elston 528s for around $30 a pair.

http://www.amazon.com/Golden-Fox-Grain-Leather-Light/dp/B0083F3SE4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1409634526&sr=8-1&keywords=golden+fox These came up recently and have pretty decent leather for the price. I'd say a step above Clark's.

It looks like it. You can find the boots on amazon for the old prices, for example:
http://www.goldenfoxfootwear.com/golden-fox-6-moc-toe-wedge-work-boots.html
and
https://www.amazon.com/Golden-Fox-Industrial-Construction-Insulated/dp/B0083F3WJK/ref=cts_sh_4_vtp?_encoding=UTF8&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_p=2601945442&pf_rd_r=GW7V3GXRK70W5Z29B026&pd_rd_wg=DZbgC&pf_rd_s=desktop-detail-softlines&pf_rd_t=40701&pd_rd_i=B007ZU7SU8&pd_rd_w=dZCWt&pf_rd_i=desktop-detail-softlines&pd_rd_r=GW7V3GXRK70W5Z29B026&th=1
are the same, but amazon is 50% cheaper.

Golden Fox Moc Toe boots are around $60 and a very popular option on FMF.
A couple reviews:

Review One

Review Two

These are a good bang for your buck.

Does anybody know if these Thorogood boots are waterproof? My cold, wet feet will thank you.

These turned out nice. For about $60 though, you could have gotten a new pair of these to break in.

Thorogood boots are about $125 shipped from Amazon.

Golden Fox boots are about $70 shipped from various third party sellers on Amazon.

We're a fan of these carhartt boots - https://www.amazon.com/Carhartt-CMF6366-Composite-Tanned-Leather/dp/B00CX7TM9S/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1484318366&sr=8-5&keywords=carhartt+boots

Golden Fox has a number of boots and chukkas.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B009Y7EH8Q


http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B007ZU7SU8/ref=aw_2nd_sims_3?pi=SS115&simLd=1

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0083F3HYA/ref=redir_mdp_mobile?keywords=golden%20fox&qid=1394139388&ref_=sr_1_2&sr=8-2

Golden Fox leather Moc Toe. How's the sizing and quality?

How are [these] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0083F3KWE/ref=ox_sc_act_image_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A25720VX5INJGM)?

Golden fox moc toe. https://www.amazon.com/Golden-Fox-Industrial-Construction-Insulated/dp/B007ZU7SU8

What to wear with these golden fox boots?

Does anyone have experience with Golden Fox Moc Toe Boots in wet/slushy/snowy conditions. I'm not in Canada, but Michigan is close enough, right?

Not quite the Moc style as the Sperry's but somewhat of a moc toe look. Check these Golden Fox Boots out.

Golden Fox is another possible.

Golden Fox Moc Toe Boots: http://www.amazon.com/Golden-Fox-Leather-Weight-Outsole/dp/B007ZU7SU8

Please don't say buy Red Wings instead, I'm poor. Also, if so, what color?