As bigger guys, we tend to suffer more from heel and arch stress. If you couple this problem with long working hours, then we might have a disaster on our hands. However, our problems can be alleviated by choosing the best work shoes for big guys. These boots are typically heavy-duty but still offer the necessary support.
For bigger guys, knowing exactly the best work shoes to look for will vary from person to person. However, that’s okay, because we’re here to help big and tall men find the perfect boots to make those long hours at work more bearable.
Our Top Picks of the Best Work Boots for Big Guys
| Caterpillar Men’s Second Shift Steel Toe Work Boot – Best Overall |
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| EVER BOOTS “Ultra Dry” Men’s Premium Leather Waterproof Work Boots – Best Budget |
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| Timberland PRO Men’s Pitboss 6″ Steel-Toe Boot – Best Premium |
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Best Work Boots for Big Guys
As we said, there are a ton of the best work boots for big guys available on the market, from well-known brands such as Timberland to more obscure options. To help you out, we have put together a list of the best shoes for heavy guys according to ranking.
Caterpillar Men’s Second Shift Steel Toe Work Boot – Best Overall
Our first choice is a reasonably priced boot for an overweight man from Caterpillar. These boots come in a variety of colors and are all created with 100% leather, regardless of the shade you choose. The synthetic soles on these boots make them hard-wearing and better to withstand rough terrain.
As a steel-toe work boot, you get maximum protection for your digits, as they prevent anything from penetrating the top of the boot. Aside from steel-toe protection, the Caterpillar Men’s Second Shift Steel-Toe Work Boot also offers electrical hazard protection and slip resistance.
You may think that 100% leather is delicate, but that’s not true in this case. These big and tall work boots offer durability like none other, thanks to the oil-resistant full-grain leather. This means that stains will not ruin the aesthetics of your work boot.
- Oil-resistant outsole
- Steel-toe protection
- Electrical hazard protection
- Slip-resistant
- Synthetic soles
- Excellent comfort and balance for bigger guys
- Comes in different colors
- 100% leather
- Breathable insole
- Removable footbed padding
- Sizing can vary
- Color may be a bit different in person
EVER BOOTS “Ultra Dry” Men’s Premium Leather Waterproof Work Boots – Best Budget
As the most affordable – yet still high quality – option on our list, the Ever Boots “Ultra Dry” are more than just the best walking shoes for heavy guys; they make excellent work boots as well. They are all 100% leather and are waterproof. You won’t have to worry about wearing these stylish work boots on a rainy day, because they will keep your feet dry.
The inner lining is warm, and they come with a 3-month manufacturer warranty just in case anything happens during the first few months.
Since they are made from pure leather, the Ever Boots premium work boots for men don’t need to be broken in. The soft materials will conform to the shape of your feet easily. You can choose to use the insole padding or remove it, depending on what makes you the most comfortable.
These boots are lightweight and comfortable but still provide enough stability for heavy guys. You will benefit from optimal traction, making them suitable for any type of terrain and weather.
- Don’t need to be broken in
- 100% leather
- Waterproof
- Warm lining
- 3-month manufacture warranty
- Stable and lightweight
- Shock-absorbent polyurethane
- Suitable for long hours at work
- Runs a bit big
- Only offers one color
Timberland PRO Men’s Pitboss 6″ Steel-Toe Boot – Best Premium
What are the best work boots for big guys? Ones made from 100% leather, of course! As you may have noticed, the top three options on our list have all been constructed of 100% leather, for premium comfort.
The Timberland brand is known for crafting the highest quality multipurpose boots, and the Pitboss 6” steel-toe boot is no exception. These boots offer a ton of support and security, as they do not slip off your feet. To provide stability, it’s important for work boots to sit tightly on your foot and ankles.
The Timberland work boots are heavily padded, and the outsole is designed for superior traction. The leather has been treated to be oil and abrasion-resistant to keep your boots looking spic and span.
One thing we loved about these work boots for big guys is the Comfort Suspension Technology, which brings even more comfort to wearers.
- 100% leather
- Rubber sole
- Secure fit
- Comfort Suspension Technology
- Oil and abrasion resistant upper
- Maximum outsole traction
- Padding
- Comfortable for big guys
- Lighter than some other work boots
- Waterproof
- Steel toe protection
- Factory insole isn’t the best
- Stitching isn’t very firm
Alternative Best Work Boots for Big Guys:
Aside from our top choices, we still have a few tried and tested options for you just in case none of the above caught your eye. Other than being heavy-duty, the boots below are also comfortable, and they provide a good fit for big dudes.
Under Armour Men’s Valsetz RTS 1.5 with Zipper Military and Tactical Boot– Synthetic Option
If you’re not too crazy about 100% leather work boots, the Under Armour Men’s Valsetz RTS 1.5, made from 100% synthetic materials, is a utilitarian alternative. Composed of man-made materials, these boots will make many big guys will feel more at ease when running them through the trenches. With synthetic materials also comes a boot with a lighter weight that is more durable.
You only have to worry about lacing up these boots once, as you can easily slip your foot in and out, thanks to the side zip.
The all-black exterior offers an incognito look that’s stylish and coveted. The multipurpose boot is excellent for tactical performance, thanks to the lightweight shank, sufficient support, and maximum outer sole traction.
- Very lightweight
- 100% synthetic
- All-black stylish exterior
- Maximum traction
- A lot of support for big dudes
- Side zipper for easy access
- Multipurpose
- Might not last like full-leather options
- Their super light weight isn’t the best for all activities
Irish Setter Men’s 6″ Work Boot – Very Stylish Exterior
Upon first glance, you may not even realize the Irish Setter boot to be a work boot. Despite its misleading appearance, the work boot from Irish Setter is outfitted with the very best foot protection. The 100% leather boot is heat resistant and very suitable for high-temperature environments.
These boots meet the ASTM F2412-11 safety standards for electrical hazard safety. The work boots are very easy to maintain and clean because they are constructed with leather. All it takes to keep your boots looking brand new is to wipe them off with a wet, lukewarm cloth.
These 6” work boots have a thicker sole for better traction and are relatively waterproof. They are not afraid of mud, dirt, debris, or even heat. The heavy and durable soles will keep your feet safe and comfortable on long workdays.
- Electrical hazard safe
- Temperature resistant
- 100% leather
- Very stylish appearance
- Easy to maintain
- Excellent traction
- Offers enough support for big guys
- Very well made and durable
- Smaller toe box
- Higher price
Dr. Martens, Men’s Icon Steel-Toe Heavy Industry Boots – No Laces
If ease and convenience – plus a little bit of the cool factor – is what you’re looking for, then look no further than the Dr. Martens steel-toe industry boots. We love this option, as they come in three different colors, and they can easily be worn on a day out due to their sleek and simple exterior.
Another feature that makes these boots for big guys super convenient is the no-lace design. All it takes is to slip your feet into the comfortable interior. The Dr. Martens are made from a hybrid of fabric and synthetic materials plus water-resistant leather.
The insides of the boot are generously padded and provide ample ankle support. Your toes are guarded from sharp objects thanks to the steel toe box and the entire boot gives wearers protection against electrical hazards.
The sole offers superior traction and the outer part of the boot is easy to maintain since the material is resistant to spills and stains.
- Offers three different colors
- No laces
- Protects against electrical hazards
- Tough sole
- Steel toe protection
- A hybrid of materials
- Stable and well-padded for big guys
- Stylish exterior
- Available in extra wide sizes
- Superior traction
- No laces means no adjustability
- Sizes might be inconsistent
Wolverine Men’s Buccaneer Work Boot – Offers a lot of Flexibility
For contouring and flexibility, there is nothing better out there than the Wolverine Men’s Buccaneer work boot. As another 100% leather option, these boots are very soft and comfortable, although the price does run a bit high. However, you won’t get to walk on a cloud if you don’t shell out the cash.
The leather is waterproof, making these work boots suitable for a wide variety of jobs and situations. The Wolverine Contour Welt construction is what gives these boots the top spot for flexibility. You can get down on your knees or stand on your tip-toes without the boots putting strain on your feet.
The lining is moisture-wicking and removable. Just in case you are unhappy with the cushioning on your footbed, the insoles can be replaced for more padding. Then there’s the outsole, which propels the durability of the boots thanks to their oil-, water-, heat-, chemical-, and abrasion-resistant properties.
- Very tough and durable sole that can withstand many things
- Moisture-wicking lining
- Sufficient padding
- Wolverine Contour Welt construction
- Waterproof
- 100% leather
- Flexible
- Very sturdy and suitable for big guys
- Insole can be removed
- Sizing can be off
- Only one color
Skechers Men’s Relment Pelmo Chukka Waterproof Boot– Memory Foam Comfort
The Skechers Men Relment Pelmo Chukka boots are great for big guys that work in wet environments, and who need extra comfort. This is the option we would recommend to anyone who requires more support. The memory foam embedded in the sole will expertly conform to the outlines of your arches to create an orthopaedic environment.
As another 100% leather option, the Skechers Men’s Relment Pelmo Chukka boots are soft and sturdy. They come in a variety of colors and sizes to help big guys like you find the best fit.
Paired with the leather upper, there is a synthetic sole that has great traction on uneven surfaces and rough terrain. You can expect a certain amount of protection from these work boots but still enjoy great support.
- 100% leather-crafted upper
- Synthetic and robust sole
- Relaxed fit
- Memory foam for max comfort
- Waterproof
- Comes in different colors and sizes
- Great for big guys that require more comfort
- Not for heavy-duty jobs
- Laces aren’t very strong
LARNMERN Steel Toe Boots – Suited for Industrial Purposes and Construction
These Larnmern boots are the best option for big men with heavy-duty jobs, and they offer many color combinations – just to add a touch of style to your workday. If you’re wondering what makes these boots the stronger option compared to some other models on our list, it’s the anti-impact and anti-puncture construction.
You will get a steel-toe cap and a puncture-proof midsole with a plate. The structure is made from a mix of leather, TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane), and mesh to improve the durability of these big guy work boots. The addition of other materials mixed in with the leather gives the shoes more protection against dust, debris, and elements.
As we make our way to the outside, we find a slip-resistant and oil-resistant sole that is also difficult to puncture. The anti-slip properties will give you supreme traction outdoors. Just to add a touch of protection, the outside is also embedded with a reflective strip and the moisture-wicking insole will keep your feet warm and dry.
- Super strong and robust construction
- Anti-puncture and anti-abrasion
- Offers excellent traction on a variety of surfaces
- Steel-toe
- A mix of materials to make the boots resistant to dust, debris, and water
- Reflective strip for nighttime visibility
- Moisture-wicking interior
- Padded, comfortable fit
- Nice color options
- The laces aren’t the best
- Not CSA approved boots
Steel Edge Store 6 Inch Non-Slip Steel Toe Work Boots for Men– Low Boot Design
If you are not a fan of the high boot styles, we have a pair that sits on or below your ankles to give you more mobility. These steel-toe work boots are built to be tough and withstand up to 2,500 pounds of pressure. The price is quite affordable for what you get, and the manufacturer offers a variety of colors.
To go with the virtually impenetrable upper, there is a slip-resistant sole. You will get nothing but excellent traction indoors and out. The boots are created from Nubuck leather, which is relatively easy to maintain and is fade-free.
Inside the boot, there is sufficient padding, which your feet can get used to without an uncomfortable break-in period. Once big guys start wearing these boots, the arch support will begin to relieve pressure points for a more comfortable fit.
- Affordable price for what you get
- Virtually impenetrable upper
- Steel toe can withstand pressure up to 2,500 pounds
- Multiple colors
- High traction
- Comfortable padding
- Easy to maintain
- Reduces fatigue
- No break-in period
- Electric Hazard protection
- Low top design
- Might show scuff marks
- Toe box can be tight
FAQ’s About Best Work Boots for Big Guys:
How Does Extra Weight Affect Your Feet?
As a big guy, having some extra weight will put more pressure and strain on your feet. Compared to a lighter person, this means your joints and soles are taking much more of the burden. Walking, working, and even standing for long hours can be painful. You might even experience strained muscles and tissue, which could wear down your feet even quicker.
How to Choose the Best Work Boots for Big Guys: Buying Guide & Tips
How do you choose the best work boots for big guys? The first thing to take into consideration is comfort. Comfort hinges on the materials used for the upper and the insoles. Find shoes with excellent padding or memory foam.
When looking at work boots, safety is the next factor. Look for ones that are built for your line of work, such as steel-toe boots or steel shank boots. Another safety component is durability – you want to be sure the shoes will protect you and wear well. Make sure the shoes are virtually impenetrable, waterproof, electrical hazard resistant and that they offer enough traction.
Characteristics of a Good Shoe for Overweight Men
The characteristics of a good shoe for overweight men are similar to the buying guide. Make sure the shoes are comfortable, safe, durable, stylish, and secure. Look for robust materials, comfortable padding, color options, and strong laces to satisfy these requirements. You should also ensure that the work boots of your choice fall within your budget.
Must-Have Features of the Best Work Boots for Big Guys
From our experience, must-have features of the best work boots for big guys will include a rubber sole – either synthetic or 100% leather exterior -, removable and ample padding, and the right fit. All of these factors paired together will equal a tough work boot.
Consumers sometimes forget to consider the style of the boot. There are lace-free options, ones that are high rise, and offer multiple colors and materials. However, we never suggest sacrificing comfort and safety for the sake of appearance.
Benefits of Choosing the Right Boots for Big Guys
The right pair of boots can really benefit a bigger guy. Without the right shoes, an overweight man could succumb to aches and pains that might evolve into chronic pain. Aside from the discomfort, you may also find yourself with bad posture and bad productivity at work. With the right pair of boots, your aches and pains should dissipate, and you will be able to work comfortably for much longer.
